I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 9 with Changing Lines 1, 2, 3, 4 to Hexagram 12

Yin Yang symbol, representing balance

Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 9.1.2.3.4 -> 12

Young Yang Young Yang Old Yin Old Yang Old Yang Old Yang

9. The Taming Power of the Small

Yang Yang Yang Yin Yin Yin

12. Standstill

9. The Taming Power of the Small (小畜 Xiǎo Chù)

Trigrams

Above
☴ Xùn (Wind)
Below
☰ Qián (Heaven)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 9

Hexagram 小畜 (Xiǎo Chù) represents the power of restraint and the ability to control small things. This hexagram emphasizes the importance of tending to details, self-discipline, and preparing for future success by controlling one's impulses and desires.

Hexagram 9 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"小畜，亨。密云不雨，自我西郊。"
(Xiǎo chù, hēng. Mì yún bù yǔ, zì wǒ xī jiāo.)
English Translation:
“The Taming Power of the Small brings success. Dense clouds, no rain, come from the western outskirts.”

This hexagram speaks of success that comes through careful restraint and moderation. Although there is potential, represented by the clouds, the time is not yet ripe for action (no rain). Patience and preparation are needed before the full potential can be realized.

Hexagram 9 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"风行天上，小畜。君子以懿文德。"
(Fēng xíng tiān shàng, xiǎo chù. Jūn zǐ yǐ yì wén dé.)
English Translation:
“The wind blows across the heavens: The image of The Taming Power of the Small. The superior person refines the outward appearance of his or her virtue.”

The image of wind moving across the sky suggests a subtle but persistent force. The superior person uses this time to refine their actions and cultivate their virtue. It advises paying attention to the details and ensuring that small things are in order before larger tasks are undertaken.

Line 1 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"复自道，何其咎，吉。"
(Fù zì dào, hé qí jiù, jí.)
English Translation:
“Returning to the path. No blame. Good fortune.”

This line advises returning to the proper course. If one has strayed, there is no harm in correcting oneself. This return brings good fortune and is free from blame.

Line 2 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"牵复，吉。"
(Qiān fù, jí.)
English Translation:
“Dragging back the carriage. Good fortune.”

This line describes pulling back or restraining the carriage to avoid rushing ahead. It advises caution and careful control, which leads to good fortune. Sometimes slowing down is the best course of action.

Line 3 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"舆说辐，夫妻反目。"
(Yú shuō fú, fū qī fǎn mù.)
English Translation:
“The carriage loses its wheel. The husband and wife turn against each other.”

This line warns of disorder and disharmony. The image of a carriage losing its wheel represents a breakdown in communication or cooperation. In relationships, this may lead to conflict if not addressed. It advises resolving misunderstandings before they escalate.

Line 4 Changing

This line reads:
Original Chinese:
"有孚，血去惕出，无咎。"
(Yǒu fú, xuè qù tì chū, wú jiù.)
English Translation:
“Sincerity brings relief. Blood leaves, and fear departs. No blame.”

This line speaks of overcoming fear and danger through sincerity and trust. The image of blood leaving symbolizes the resolution of harm, and fear subsides as a result. When acting with integrity, one can overcome adversity without blame.

Changing to:

12. Standstill (否 Pǐ)

Trigrams

Above
☰ Qián (Heaven)
Below
☷ Kūn (Earth)

The Symbolism of Hexagram 12

Hexagram 否 (Pǐ) symbolizes standstill or stagnation. This hexagram represents a time when progress halts, and opposing forces prevent movement forward. It advises patience and waiting for more favorable conditions.

Hexagram 12 Judgment

The Judgment reads:
Original Chinese:
"否之匪人，不利君子贞，大往小来。"
(Pǐ zhī fěi rén, bù lì jūn zǐ zhēn, dà wǎng xiǎo lái.)
English Translation:
“Standstill. Evil people do not further the perseverance of the superior person. The great departs; the small approaches.”

In times of standstill, negative forces dominate, making it difficult for the superior person to act. The good or great things seem to recede, while small, petty concerns take their place. This hexagram advises patience and restraint until the situation improves.

Hexagram 12 Image

The Image reads:
Original Chinese:
"天地不交，否。君子以俭德辟难，不可荣以禄。"
(Tiān dì bù jiāo, pǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ jiǎn dé pì nàn, bù kě róng yǐ lù.)
English Translation:
“Heaven and earth do not unite: The image of Standstill. The superior person uses modesty to avoid difficulties. He does not boast of riches or honors.”

The image of heaven and earth not interacting symbolizes a breakdown in harmony, leading to stagnation. The superior person recognizes that in such times, it is better to remain modest, avoid drawing attention, and wait for a more favorable situation.

Peace and wisdom on your journey!

With gratitude,
The I Ching Team